Athens is the city where the classical heritage of the world is rooted. The city is not only full of great history, architecture, and food but also rich with culture. As the capital and largest city of Greece, it will make a great central point for day trips from it and surrounding areas. There are plenty of possibilities depending on the choices you make, including small islands, sandy beaches, ancient sites, or even the most breathtaking landscapes. Thus, you will certainly enjoy your stay in Greece. We are going to explore Day Trips from Athens. It is going to be a detailed and informative guide.
Delphi and Mount Parnassus
A typical excursion from Athens is to see the ancient site of Delphi, one of many favorite destinations. Two hours’ drive away from the capital Athens, Mount Parnassus hosts Delphi, which was regarded as the heart of the world and the home of the revered Oracle of Delphi. Pilgrims were coming from all over Greece and the rest of it to get oracles and hear prophecies. The ruins cover functional facilities such as temples, a theatre, a stadium, and the sanctuary of Apollo, where the Oracle dwelt. It is truly a remarkable location, encompassed by the beauty of majestic mountain views.
The Temple of Poseidon is located at Cape Sounion
For a beach getaway exuding a unique combination of icons and ruins, travel to Cape Sounion, located on the south coast of Athens. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to reach this place. The main focus is the ancient Temple of Poseidon, which is amazingly sitting atop the cliff, overlooking the sea. 440 BC is the approximate date it was built. The stunning views and romantic mood at sunset are made more spectacular as the columns are in silhouette. What follows after you see the temple is the beach, too. Kavouri Beach is a quiet place to rest. Venturing out on the water is also given the green light, whether to sail or kayak along the coastline.
Hydra, Poros, and Aegina reside.
The Saronic Islands in the Saronic Gulf can be easily accessed from Athens as a day trip. Hétra, Póros, and Áegina are all within less than 90 minutes of travel time by short ferry from the port of Pairaíos in Athens. These picturesque and appealing small port cities and islands have many harbors, historic architecture, and cozy little towns that are fun to visit.
The town of Hydra prohibits cars, with their mobility being ensured through donkeys or on foot. Ny Poros has a genuinely beautiful town center, which is built around a bay. The island is very famous for its pistachio orchards and its industry. You better spend time along the waterfronts, paying a visit to cafes, boutiques, museums, and monasteries within the area.
The Corinth Canal
A feat of engineering, the Corinth Canal carved out the narrow Isthmus of Corinth and connected the Peloponnese to the Greek mainland. It will take you just an hour and a half to get here if you come from Athens. From above, you can observe the sheer limestone walls of the canal, while the vehicle ride lets you experience the canal from below. The boat tour gives you another unique angle for a special view of the canal system. Shortly, these locations are the antiquated port town of Corinth, the Acrocorinth fortress, and Vouliagmeni Lake. As well as the famous Kechries Beach, you can go swimming and sunbathing.
Mycenae and Epidaurus
Although history buffs have many choices close to Athens, the Mycenae and Epidaurus trip, situated in Peloponnese, about two hours from Athens, is one of the highest-rated experiences in the area. Mycenae is an important part of the Mycenaean or Bronze Age List, which stood from 1600 to 1200 BC until it became less influential.
Here you can visit the ancient ruins, which are well maintained and show the iconic Lion Gate, the Cyclopean walls that measure the height of a giant, the royal tombs, and the palace. So, in Epidaurus, you can also spend some time, as this place was sacred to the god Asclepius and was organized as a sanctuary and healing center. It is well-known for the preservation of the oldest theatre in use today, which is said to have great acoustics.
Conclusion
Athens provides the perfect entry point to stand in awe at the many glorious ancient sites. You can see the stunning beaches, quaint villages, and breathtaking isles that Greece is famous for across the globe. The daily trips you’ve read about above are only a few of the many gorgeous sites you can visit just outside of Athens. Whatever specialty you enjoy, though, you will find many great resources across the country while staying in Athens. Make the most of the fantastic local region by getting outside to discover it. Reaching some of the most amazing destinations in the world, full of history, culture, and stunning scenery, you will never forget your one-day escape from Athens.
FAQs
Besides, how can I go to Delphi and Cape Sounion from Athens?
Visit these sites by joining the organized tours. They offer both transportation to and from those places, which is the easiest and most convenient way. Private transport is available when you rent a car and drive. A 2-hour drive is what it takes to get to Delphi from Athens. The journey to Cape Sounion, however, is about an hour.
Any fast means of transport to the Saronic Islands?
One can take a ferry that is available from the port of Piraeus. It is the port in Athens that would take one to Hydra, Poros, and the Aegina Islands. It can last 40–90 minutes, but it depends on the direction that is chosen too. Remember to check the ferries’ timetables and buy them from the kiosk at the port or online.
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